James Tredwell believes that England have the tools to win their first one-day
trophy after defeating New Zealand in Cardiff on Sunday to advance to the
semi-finals of the tournament.

Almost 40 years have elapsed sinceEngland first tried to beat the world in ODI cricket – and 16 tournaments later, in what is likely to be the last Champions Trophy, they have rarely been nearer to breaking their duck.

It seemed for much of on Sunday at a soggy Cardiff Wales Stadium that their prospects were again about to sink without trace.

But after the weather relented long enough to allow a 24-overs-per-side contest, they dug out a 10-run victory which means that they woke up this morning knowing already they were through to the last four.

Alastair Cook's runs and James Anderson's new-ball wickets underpinned a success which also owed a little to the reliable economy of James Tredwell, once again performing with distinction as the injured Graeme Swann's off-spin understudy.

Tredwell has deputised admirably for Swann in three of England's last four ODIs – all victories too, compared with the seven-wicket setback against Sri Lanka from which he was absent.

"All the teams in this tournament are good and to beat New Zealand, who are a very tough side, was a very good result," said the 31-year-old. "We have as a good chance now [of winning this tournament] as any team in the next stage."

"That's an absolutely massive thing. We don't want to look too far ahead – to lifting that trophy, we hope – but equally, it's something that's in the back of your mind.

"The semi-final is going to be tough, but we're two games away now from winning a major tournament. That's how we're looking at it. As a group of players, that's a place we want to get to. But first and foremost, we have a big game coming up."

Swann's availability – a sore calf and stiff back have been the ailments which have so far curtailed his pivotal role over the past week – is in doubt for the remainder of the tournament.

Cook made it clear last night that England will not be tempted into unnecessary risk, with such an able deputy at their disposal.

Tredwell added: "I'm in the squad and I'm getting a game here and there. I don't think I've let anyone down in the games I've played, so I hope that can continue. For my part it's fingers crossed.

"But again Swanny's been brilliant. So if he's fit, I'm sure he'll come into the reckoning.

"The last six to eight months have been really good to me. I've got a few games under my belt and shown what I can do. When every game comes around now, I'm chomping at the bit to get on the park."